Hemp-infused drinks could potentially cause soldiers to fail drug tests

We ran across an interesting story this week involving a Rockstar energy drink potentially causing soldiers to fail drug tests. The new PepsiCo drinks, dubbed “Rockstar Unplugged,” are infused with hemp seed oil as well as B vitamins, spearmint and lemon balm.

“A single use of some hemp products may result in a positive drug test,” said Army Spokesperson Matt Leonard in an interview with The Military Times. “Regulation AR 600-85 prohibits soldiers from using products made or derived from hemp, regardless of the product’s claimed or actual tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration and whether such product may be lawfully sold in the civilian marketplace.”

Rockstar Unplugged has become the latest energy drink to add a hemp seed oil to their recipe. Hemp oil is not psychoactive and contains little to no cannabidiol (CBD). But food and drinks infused with CBD are still subject to federal restrictions.

For years, Rockstar drinks soused with a walloping 240 milligrams of caffeine were all the rage for young U.S. males. The new Rockstar Unplugged is looking to chill out, so to say, containing only 80 milligrams of caffeine in addition to the already-mentioned hemp oil to “lift the mood.”

Hemp plants actually contain more CBD than cannabis, which contains more THC. Although unlikely, there’s no guarantee hemp or CBD users will avoid testing positive for THC, which is what the Army tests for.

“No test exists to identify the source of THC in a urine sample to determine if it was derived from illegal marijuana or other products such as hemp energy drinks,” Leonard said.

So, soldiers have been warned to avoid getting “Unplugged.” But it’s not just the U.S. Army raising the alarm.

An advisory was distributed last month by the Naval War College’s Drug and Alcohol Program Advisor stating, “Sailors and Marines are prohibited from using any product made or derived from hemp, regardless of whether such a product may lawfully be bought under the law applicable to civilians. Rockstar now produces an energy drink infused with hemp seed oil that will cause you to pop-positive on drug tests.”

It’s a good idea to read the fine print on the can of the trendy beverage you consume, especially if you’re scheduled for a drug test.